Zoo opens April 1

SPRINGFIELD After a long, snowy winter, you can tell spring is coming when The Zoo In Forest Park & Education Center opens for visitation. Barring inclement weather, the gates will open at 10 a.m. on April 1.

In the Barnyard, visitors can enjoy heritage livestock, like Tennessee Fainting Goats and Jacob's Four-horned sheep. Look for newly born babies. The Poitou Donkey still sports his thick, dangling winter coat. Our native Backyard animals such as bobcats, bears, raccoons, birds of prey and others are readily visible and active.

The mountain lions are more energetic at this time of year and can be seen prowling about. If the temperature allows, our animals from Beyond like the ring-tailed lemurs, kangaroos, or capuchin monkeys will be out enjoying the springtime air. If the day is too cool, they can still be viewed through the windows of their winter quarters.

Spring is definitely to be celebrated at the Zoo, where animals from Barnyards, Backyards and Beyond are awaiting your visit.

The Zoo's seasonal opening kicks-off with our Easter Festival, April 8 from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. If the day is rainy, the festivities will take place April 9. (Call 733-2251 to confirm) The whole family can take part in lots of fun springtime activities.

Two Egg Hunts will take place for children ages 3 to 8. 3 to 5 year olds will be will be able to hunt for eggs starting at noon. The egg hunt for 6 to 8 year olds will begin promptly at 1:00. Wrapped candy, animal toys, tickets for train rides and animal food coupons will be hidden in over 1,000 plastic eggs. The only thing you will need is your Easter basket!

After the hunt, visit the "Bunny Corral", where lots of bunnies will be hopping about. Little ones can sit among the bunnies to experience some furry fun or have their pictures taken. Be sure to stop at the craft table, to make and decorate a hopping bunny. You can also get your face painted by Imagical Arts Face & Body Arts. (Extra fee applies.) Be sure to meet Chit Chat the Clown to get a tattoo and a good laugh.

The event is free with paid Zoo admission. Admission is $4.50 for adults; $3.50 for children ages 5-12; $2.00 for Children 1-4; Free for ages up to age 1; $3.50 for Seniors.

The Zoo is open to the public 7 days per week starting April 1st. Hours are 10:00 - 4:30.

For more details, call 413-733-2251 ext. 10 or visit the Zoo's website at www.forestparkzoo.org.